Intangible Folk Cultural Properties Requiring Documentation of Shimane

iscover Aofushigaki Shinji, an extraordinary Shinto ritual at Miho Shrine in Shimane Prefecture. This 1000-year-old ceremony reenacts Japanese mythology where the deity Ebisu hides behind blue brushwood fences. Held every April 7th, witness sacred boats, divine trances, and ancient traditions.

Sharabune is a traditional Obon spirit-sending ceremony passed down in Nishinoshima Town on the Oki Islands, Shimane Prefecture. Nine communities in the Mita and Urago districts build large straw boats to carry the spirits of ancestors out to sea, with children riding alongside offerings. The sight of boats over 10 meters long, adorned with colorful spirit banners, being towed across Mita Bay is an iconic summer tradition with over a century of history.

On Dogo off Shimane, dancers perform Oki Kokubunji Renge-e-mai each 21 April. Listed in 1977, this bugaku-rooted folk art outlived a 2007 fire that burned the props.

Sada Shin Noh is a sacred ritual performing art held annually in September at Sada Shrine in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture. As the only shrine dance in Japan that incorporates classical Noh theater conventions, this UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property is regarded as the fountainhead of Izumo-style kagura.

Shimane’s registered properties across designations, with featured heritage and travel notes.

The complete kokuhō catalogue — browse by prefecture, period, and category.

Nationwide jūyō bunkazai — architecture, sculpture, painting, crafts, and documents.